The Science of Brewing a Good Craft Beer

Seen in image above: Schnitzels European Flavours brewery in Cornwall. Courtesy photo

March 29, 2018

Best Water In – Best Water Out

CORNWALL —Good water makes for great craft beer and RiverLabs, the Applied Research wing of the River Institute, knows all about good water. On Wednesday, April 4 at 7:00 p.m. the River Institute’ssignature Science and Nature on Tap speaker series will tap one of their own when RiverLabs program leader, Louis Savard presents on one his favourite topics – the art and science of brewing a good beer. As it turns out, it’s all about the water.

The craft brewing industry in Ontario continues to grow by leaps and bounds and one of the largest challenges being faced, especially in smaller rural communities, is water management. RiverLabs Brewery Services Program is actively working with members of the Ontario Craft Brewer’s Association to ensure that not only does the best quality of water goes into Ontario Craft Beer but that the wastewater leaving their facilities does not pose a problem for the environment. Louis Savard says, “The message is fairly simple – Best Water In: Best Water Out”.

Formed five years ago, Cornwall’s own RiverLabs is the Applied Research wing of the St. Lawrence River Institute of Environmental Sciences. Amongst its many other industry environmentally related projects, RiverLabs is working with Ontario’s Craft Brewers to assist some 68 small independent breweries across the province to create the best products possible. Breweries such as Lake of Bays in Baysville, Ont. and Beau’s in Vankleek Hill are brewing large quantities of craft beer in small communities. Out of necessity they are becoming experts and leaders on water and wastewater best practices and Savard’s expert team is working with them to assist in the process.

Mario Bourgeois from Cassel Brewery says,“Being a microbrewery with limited space, analysis and quality control is challenging. RiverLabs staff have gone out of their way to help us out and build standards for our beers. Their professionalism and awesome service is one of the key factors of our success.”

Learn more about the burgeoning craft brewing industry and its vital connection to water in this intriguing session at Schnitzels where an opportunity exists to discover what makes Ontario’s craft brews some of the finest anywhere. Sessions are free but seating is limited. If you are interested learning more about water’s role in brewing great beer, reserve your seat today by registering online at www.riverinstitute.caor by emailing Science and Nature on Tap Coordinator Karen Cooper kcooper@riverinstitute.caor by calling 613-936-6620(ext.229).

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